When your tub or shower is outdated, you have several options: replace it with a new one, install a liner or refinish it. Refinishing is less expensive than replacement and can be done in a shorter amount of time. However, the type of bathtub you have plays a role in how much it costs to refinish it. Some types of tubs are easier to refinish than others, and some may require a professional.

Best bathtub reglazing in San Diego, for example, typically has a layer of porcelain over cast iron and can be difficult to refinish without damaging the base. The average cost to refinish a porcelain tub is $475. If your old tub has chipping, it will need a lot of sanding and then the porcelain coating will need to be applied, which adds up to a bigger project and a higher price tag.

Best Bathtub Reglazing in San Diego: Restoring Beauty with Precision

You can also refinish fiberglass tubs, but the process is more complex. It’s best to hire a professional, as the materials need to be mixed, heated and applied correctly. The price to refinish a fiberglass tub ranges from $300 to $1,000.

You can save money by refinishing a clawfoot tub yourself, but it’s best to hire a professional for this job. The cost to refinish a cast iron clawfoot tub is usually around $500-$1,200. Refinishing is less expensive than replacement, and refinished surfaces can last for years if you maintain them with regular non-abrasive cleaning.